Water pipes are needed in such large quantities that they must be made from a reasonable inexpensive material. The material must be strong and hard wearing. It must be easily worked when the pipes are being installed and during later repairs. Only metals have the strength and the ease of working needed for the purpose. It is essential that the metal used does not become corroded by constant contact with water, and that is completely non-toxic. The metals available in quantity are iron, copper, lead, aluminum and stainless steel.
Lead is easy to work, even when cold. It was traditionally used for water pipes. Over a period of many years lead reacts very slowly with water to form lead compounds. These are poisonous and lead is no longer used for water pipes.
Copper is the next easiest metal to work as joints are easy to make by soldering. Stainless steel pipes are an alternative. Joining stainless steel pipes is more difficult. It also has a layer of chromium oxide which protects it from water and air. Stainless steel and copper are the main choices for water pipes.
Cast iron is used for large diameter pipes needed for water mains. These pipes must be very strong to withstand changes in the pressure of the ground around them.
Lead is easy to work, even when cold. It was traditionally used for water pipes. Over a period of many years lead reacts very slowly with water to form lead compounds. These are poisonous and lead is no longer used for water pipes.
Copper is the next easiest metal to work as joints are easy to make by soldering. Stainless steel pipes are an alternative. Joining stainless steel pipes is more difficult. It also has a layer of chromium oxide which protects it from water and air. Stainless steel and copper are the main choices for water pipes.
Cast iron is used for large diameter pipes needed for water mains. These pipes must be very strong to withstand changes in the pressure of the ground around them.
